VOLKSWAGEN ESTABLISHES $1 MILLION PROGRAM IN HAMILTON COUNTY SCHOOLS

Tennessee Gov. Bill Haslam and Economic and Community Development Commissioner Randy Boyd along with Volkswagen Group of America, Chattanooga Operations (Volkswagen Chattanooga) officials have announced the establishment of a $1 million program that will allow all Hamilton County middle and high schools to apply for funds to create a science lab in their school. Named the Volkswagen eLabs, the program will allow students to gain access to emergent technologies, including automated manufacturing equipment, 3D printers, robotics, programmable microcomputers, renewable energy kits and other science-related activities. Schools will be required to identify a team of teachers committed to investing a significant amount of time to develop the knowledge and skills to take advantage of the laboratory opportunity. A school’s principal must demonstrate a personal commitment to the project, agree to engage in professional learning and provide release time to at least one teacher who will manage the lab. Each school must also commit to raise a minimum of $5,000 annually in cash contributed materials to ensure that the lab is continually refreshed and materials are replaced.